General News & Information about Haakon,Mette-Marit & Family 1: July 2014 - June 2020

[Blog Real]

They are flouting a Government ban on skiing even if they are isolated and also showing a lack of support and empathy to their fellow countrymen/women who can't enjoy such activities at the moment. Overall though I think their happy smiling faces are just tasteless when so many are grieving. They could have done this and kept it to themselves.

Be that as it may, the comments on mette-marit's social network are not negative. We also don't know where they were.

 

[Muhler]

I rechecked.

The Norwegian Health Minister, Bent Høie, said specifically that the ban on going skiing in the mountains and staying in cabins there will be lifted from 20th April.

That is confirmed at the official info from the Norwegian government:
https://www.regjeringen.no/no/aktuelt/Vil-apne-samfunnet-gradvis-og-kontrollert/id2697060/

Regjeringen har også besluttet at forbudet mot å overnatte på hytta blir opphevet fra 20. april.

– Det vil ikke lenger være straffbart å overnatte på hytta, men det er fortsatt en nasjonal anbefaling å unngå fritidsreiser

"The government has also decided that the ban against spending the night in a cabin will be lifted from 20th April.
It will no longer be a punishable offense to spend the night in a cabin, but it is still a national recommendation to avoid holiday-trips/weekend-trips."

I have also glanced at the Norwegian newspapers, there appears to be no criticism of Haakon and MM, on the contrary in fact.

- So I guess H&MM went skiing for a few hours only.
Whether that is the greatest idea is of course debatable. Personally I don't think so, because far from all Norwegians have access to a cabin right up the nearest mountain, but will have to drive a while, eat somewhere, tank gasoline, buy supplies and go to the toilet along the roads.
People on the move = the infection is also on the move, also even if people try and avoid each other.
So if H&MM had posted this on the 21st it would have been OK. But IMO this is a little premature. People may not take it that serious anymore, if they see someone with a very serious lung-condition (MM) skiing in the mountains. Something many Norwegians otherwise do in the weekends and not least during Easter.

 

[sophie25]

I rechecked.

The Norwegian Health Minister, Bent Høie, said specifically that the ban on going skiing in the mountains and staying in cabins there will be lifted from 20th April.

That is confirmed at the official info from the Norwegian government:
https://www.regjeringen.no/no/aktuelt/Vil-apne-samfunnet-gradvis-og-kontrollert/id2697060/

Regjeringen har også besluttet at forbudet mot å overnatte på hytta blir opphevet fra 20. april.

– Det vil ikke lenger være straffbart å overnatte på hytta, men det er fortsatt en nasjonal anbefaling å unngå fritidsreiser

"The government has also decided that the ban against spending the night in a cabin will be lifted from 20th April.
It will no longer be a punishable offense to spend the night in a cabin, but it is still a national recommendation to avoid holiday-trips/weekend-trips."

I have also glanced at the Norwegian newspapers, there appears to be no criticism of Haakon and MM, on the contrary in fact.

- So I guess H&MM went skiing for a few hours only.
Whether that is the greatest idea is of course debatable. Personally I don't think so, because far from all Norwegians have access to a cabin right up the nearest mountain, but will have to drive a while, eat somewhere, tank gasoline, buy supplies and go to the toilet along the roads.
People on the move = the infection is also on the move, also even if people try and avoid each other.
So if H&MM had posted this on the 21st it would have been OK. But IMO this is a little premature. People may not take it that serious anymore, if they see someone with a very serious lung-condition (MM) skiing in the mountains. Something many Norwegians otherwise do in the weekends and not least during Easter.

As I mentioned before, the posting of these pictures is tasteless at this point in time and if people in Norway don't think so I would be amazed. As a UK citizen if any of our royal family did anything similar right now it would never be forgotten nor forgiven and I think would even be the end of our Monarchy. That's how serious a mistake it would be here but maybe the majority of Norwegians think differently.

 

[Blog Real]

As you can see in this article, there is no controversy in Norway because of the photos that Princess Mette-Marit shared on Instagram.
https://www.dagbladet.no/kjendis/vekker-oppsikt-i-utlandet/72343533

 

[polyesco]

Thanks Muhler.
The fact that there is a ban in Norway for skiing and that the heirs still go ahead and not only ski but post a picture is disappointing.
There might not be criticism yet but I can see this encouraging others to go ski. Which makes the jobs of the authorities more difficult.

 

[ladongas]

There is a ban on going out in your own yard?

 

[Somebody]

There is a ban on going out in your own yard?

I don't think they own a skiing area with lift and all...

So, while I now understand there not to be a ban on skiing itself (otherwise, I'd assume the lifts wouldn't be open either) but on going to a holiday home/cabin for skiing (I guess to reduce traffic between different places), I still don't think it is wise as it encourages others to flock outdoors over the Easter week(end). Not sure that is the message the Norwegian government wants to promote given that they will only lift restrictions in 2 weeks time...

 

[polyesco]

There is a ban on going out in your own yard?

Judging by the ski lifts behind them I'm guessing they are not in their back yard, I might be wrong though.

But moving forward I hope we see the CP couple with more events in the next months. MM looks fantastic.

 

[HereditaryPrincess]

I agree that, given the nationwide ban, it does seem a bit insensitive of MM to post the photo (I doubt it's an old one). It gives off the impression that royals are let off the hook during lockdown when sadly COVID-19 has proven it doesn't care if you have blue blood or not.

 

[Blog Real]

What matters is that MM seems to be in good health.
Haakon and Mette-Marit are not fools and i'm sure they know what they're doing.

 

[HereditaryPrincess]

Still; as children of the king Haakon and MM have an example to set to the rest of the country. As polyesco said, if people see their CP family skiing it might encourage them to ski which would make keeping people in tow harder during lockdown.

 

[wartenberg7]

Still; as children of the king Haakon and MM have an example to set to the rest of the country. As polyesco said, if people see their CP family skiing it might encourage them to ski which would make keeping people in tow harder during lockdown.

One cannot compare scandinavian countries with a lot of space due to little number of population with big industrial countries such as Germany, Britain or France or smaller ones like the Netherlands or Belgium with little space. So, just in this regard, there are different rules in more "empty" areas, when it comes to social distancing required and needed than in other places where people are more crowded.
Neighbouring Sweden has hardly any restrictions, even in Stockholm, how to move outside.
Virologists and Psychologists urge people to go outside, to have a walk or do ones sports in open and fresh air (on your own or - in regard of distancing rules - with the people you are living with). So, in this regard they are doing nothing wrong at all! I´m sure if the norwegian authorities or police watch too many people in specific areas, moving too close, they will act like everywhere else. But, as I said before, being able to go out during this trying times while at the same time obeying the rules of social distancing, is crucial and very important.

 

[eya]

"It will be a different Easter for many this year, including the volunteers of the Red Cross. The Crown Prince couple today received an orientation from Inger Johanne Brekke, Bjørn Olav Søndrol and Atle Nes, three volunteers ready for action.⁣
⁣
With small people in the mountains, the Red Cross organizes emergency preparedness differently than they usually do. Parts of the emergency response are relocated to people's immediate areas, and the volunteers assist, among other things, health authorities in patient transport and coronary-related missions. In addition, caring is important, even at Easter."


⁣https://www.kongehuset.no/nyhet.html?tid=182941&sek=26939

⁣
Photo: Prince Sverre Magnus

 

[ladongas]

It appears (Google Map) that there is a ski resort 3-4 miles from their home. Although the lifts are closed, some resorts in the states are still allowing access to those able to walk up the mountain. Do the restrictions allow people to travel short distances for recreation?

 

[Muhler]

It appears (Google Map) that there is a ski resort 3-4 miles from their home. Although the lifts are closed, some resorts in the states are still allowing access to those able to walk up the mountain. Do the restrictions allow people to travel short distances for recreation?

The restrictions say that there is a ban on spending the night in cabins in the mountains, and that people ought to refrain from going on mini-holidays or weekends.
So there isn't a direct ban on outings lasting a few hours, as I interpret it. Provided people return home the same day. But it is frowned upon by the government. - I.e. stay at home if possible.

 

[ladongas]

The restrictions say that there is a ban on spending the night in cabins in the mountains, and that people ought to refrain from going on mini-holidays or weekends.
So there isn't a direct ban on outings lasting a few hours, as I interpret it. Provided people return home the same day. But it is frowned upon by the government. - I.e. stay at home if possible.

But isn’t Skaugum their main home? Two ski resorts quite near there, so they could easily have an hour’s skiing and be home within two hours...

 

[tommy100]

Hmm I think its unwise of them to draw attention to the fact they have access to more than the general public. It may not be criminal but it doesn't mean its a wise thing to do and if I were a Norwegian I may feel a bit put out the royals are so happy to show off they can have a ski slope to themselves. Of course if it didn't go on social media no one would know it was happening and, as they say, what you don't know can't hurt you.

 

[HereditaryPrincess]

One cannot compare scandinavian countries with a lot of space due to little number of population with big industrial countries such as Germany, Britain or France or smaller ones like the Netherlands or Belgium with little space. So, just in this regard, there are different rules in more "empty" areas, when it comes to social distancing required and needed than in other places where people are more crowded.
Neighbouring Sweden has hardly any restrictions, even in Stockholm, how to move outside.

I don't remember mentioning anything about other countries in my post - I simply said that as heirs Haakon and MM are in the public eye and thus have an example to set to the rest of the country. Nothing else about other European places.

As a Brit, we're also not that spacious - yes, there's less of us, but we're not like many places in bigger countries like Australia or the US where a lot of people outside of the cities are spread out and live in larger houses. Most ordinary Brits live in small suburban detached/semi-detached houses or flat complexes. There has been a real issue here of people going to parks in cities like London and Manchester where tighter restrictions have been placed, and it's worrying residents of flats who depend on those public spaces for fresh air and exercise.

 

[carlota]

Very ill judgement to post that picture of them skiing when the country is in lockdown, and everyone is seeing their usual freedom to roam diminished. People will start thinking why some of certain privileged backgrounds are allowed to do certain things that are discouraged for the rest of the population.

 

[ladongas]

Very ill judgement to post that picture of them skiing when the country is in lockdown, and everyone is seeing their usual freedom to roam diminished. People will start thinking why some of certain privileged backgrounds are allowed to do certain things that are discouraged for the rest of the population.

Are the other people who also live in the neighborhood of the ski resort allowed access? If you’re allowed to go outside to exercise, is it permitted to drive a short distance to a park, or hiking trail, or other recreation area?
I don’t have access to the exact rules established for the people of Norway.
Thank you.

 

[Muhler]

Here are the official guidelines in English.
https://helsenorge.no/coronavirus

You should be able to find the answers here. ?

 

[ladongas]

Here are the official guidelines in English.
https://helsenorge.no/coronavirus

You should be able to find the answers here. ?

Thank you! How kindly the suggestions and mandates are given! I still didn’t find the precise answer I seek, but it looks as though exercise in your general neighborhood is permitted as long as social distancing is practiced.

Hope you and yours are well and safe. We are planning a run to the liquor store (or ‘packy’ as New Englanders call it) later and are planning it as tactically as the Invasion of Normandy!

 

[wartenberg7]

I don't remember mentioning anything about other countries in my post - I simply said that as heirs Haakon and MM are in the public eye and thus have an example to set to the rest of the country. Nothing else about other European places.

As a Brit, we're also not that spacious - yes, there's less of us, but we're not like many places in bigger countries like Australia or the US where a lot of people outside of the cities are spread out and live in larger houses. Most ordinary Brits live in small suburban detached/semi-detached houses or flat complexes. There has been a real issue here of people going to parks in cities like London and Manchester where tighter restrictions have been placed, and it's worrying residents of flats who depend on those public spaces for fresh air and exercise.

Exactly, that was what I wanted to point out in my post. You cannot compare crowded places like Manchester, Berlin or even Oslo with the norwegian countryside and mountains with a lot of space around you. If going out skiing was not allowed, the CP couple wouldn´t have done it so they didn´t do anything wrong. In that sense they couldn´t have set a bad example at all. People are even encouraged by the authorities (Italy and Spain is a very different matter) to go out - considering social distancing! - and do ones exercise in the open air BECAUSE of health reasons (mentally and physically)!
https://helsenorge.no/coronavirus

 

[eya]

"Crown Princess Mette Marit of Norway has given a rare interview to Norway’s state TV NRK. In the interview the Crown Princess emphasizes that we are in a time when we all should care about each other's mental health."

https://twitter.com/x/status/1255377128960528386

 

[muriel]

"Crown Princess Mette Marit of Norway has given a rare interview to Norway’s state TV NRK. In the interview the Crown Princess emphasizes that we are in a time when we all should care about each other's mental health."

https://twitter.com/x/status/1255377128960528386

It is great to hear that the Crown Princess will be talking about mental health. It is not that long ago when the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge took up campaigning for mental health, and it was considered a deeply unfashionable subject.

 

[Countessmeout]

It is great to hear that the Crown Princess will be talking about mental health. It is not that long ago when the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge took up campaigning for mental health, and it was considered a deeply unfashionable subject.

And of course Prince Harry.

While the Cambridges (and Harry) can be applauded for their shining a bright spotlight on mental health, they certainly aren't alone. Or the trail blazers.

Mette Marit has spent close to 19 years working on Mental Health awareness. One of her first patronages was The Norwegian Council of Mental Health'. Every year in October she is involved in events for World Mental health day.

Her and Haakon have hosted a banquet at their estate for the past 16 years, hosting people involved in the Mental health field.


The difference is that the BRF gets more spotlight and news, they are better known outside royal fans and their own country then the continental royals. Maxima, Letizia, Mathilde and others have also taken on the cause.


But its one of those causes that cant hurt but have as many people shining the spotlight on it as possible.



In a time like this there has to be a lot of emphasis put on mental health. Especially in groups like seniors who being home bound may be isolated during this time from others.

 

[wartenberg7]

It is great to hear that the Crown Princess will be talking about mental health. It is not that long ago when the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge took up campaigning for mental health, and it was considered a deeply unfashionable subject.

unfashionable...?! I think the acceptance of mental health issues has grown enormously in the past 15 or 20 years. And there are millions, everyone on another level, affected worldwide.

 

[eya]

CP Mette Marit on her Instagram:

"Here in the weaving room hope is bright green today �� ... Thanks to lovely ladies at @fretexfashion for many nice old fills. And most of all to @heidispiten and @askerhusflidslag for diploma"

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAIpZIohlfe/

 

[victoriaalix]

From Royal Central: What school might Princess Ingrid Alexandra start at in August?

 

[ROYAL NORWAY]

Well, as long-time readers of the Norwegian threads will know, I have never shied away from criticizing the CP-Couple when I thought criticism was due. Such as they being friends with a bunch of wealthy people and celebrities or taking their children out of the public school, two things that are not very wise to do as CP-Couple in an egalitarian society like Norway. Or their constant criticism of the Norwegian media's relatively careful coverage of Marius, when it was, in fact, Marius himself who in many cases sought the limelight.

But when it comes to the skiing-thing...weeeell, let's go through the facts.
BTW, to understand any of this, one must have read the two previous pages. And while I don't bother to quote a whole bunch of posts here, be aware that the below stuff is meant as a reply to all the posters that have dealt with this topic, including those who have asked questions, i.e. Prinsara, EvaH & ladongas.


So, I reckon that those unfamiliar with this now have gone back in the thread and there found out that the Crown Princess posted the pictures on Monday the 6th of April - and wrote the following:
''Jeg kom meg til toppen gitt. Whats not to love med Oslopåske Husk å ta vare på hverandre og vær 2 meter unna de dere er veldig glad i, men ikke bor sammen med og alle andre også.''

Translation by me:
''I got to the top! What's not to love with Oslo Easter Remember to take care of each other and be 2 meters away from those you are very fond of, but do not live with and everyone else too.''

Which means that they went skiing either on that day (which was the first day of the Norwegian Easter-holiday) or on April 3rd, 4th or 5th (i.e. the Palm-weekend, which is when many normally travel to their winter-cabins and in reality start their holiday).
And yes, that was during the lockdown, which was imposed on March 12th, and which began to be loosened up on April 20th.

But now to the important stuff:
1. The authorities (including the Prime Minister and Health Minister in press conferences and interviews) said and even encouraged people during that period (the lockdown, I mean) to be out in fresh air - as long as one followed what had been stated about social distancing.
2. There was no ban on skiing itself!
3. The CP-family was not spending the night in a cabin or holiday-property outside their own municipality (which until April 20th was the illegal-part).

So what were they doing? Well, they just took a few rounds of skiing at The Wyller Slope in Oslo Winter Park, which closed on the day of the lockdown. This meant that the park was without staff and thus with the lifts closed and that the CP family was there at their own risk. But since they are always being followed by officers from Den kongelige politieskorte (The Royal Police Escort), they would have had people there to help them anyway if, for example, an accident had occurred.
And although one cannot see it in CP MM's Instagram-photos, I know from Norwegian television that a lot of ordinary Norwegians living in or around Oslo (many of whom had probably planned to spend their March-weekends and Easter-holiday at cabins or hotels up in the mountains) have done the same thing (gone skiing in the same park I mean), and started doing it way before the Crown Princess posted the pictures. And I haven't seen or read anything about people not keeping their social distancing while doing it.

So did the CP-family do something wrong? Well, the authorities advised people to not do trips outside your own municipality, but there was no ban as long one didn't spend the night in a cabin or holiday-property (now I'm talking before April 20th). And anyway, it's just a 30-min drive from their main home Skaugum (in Asker municipality) to Oslo Winter Park (in Oslo municipality).

Media-coverage: No criticism at all; I think it was actually seen as a morale boost, which was probably also the intention of CP MM when she posted the photos.